Ashes: Michael Vaughan slams England's decision to skip warm-up game
What's the story
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has criticized his country's decision not to involve the main Test squad in the upcoming Prime Minister's XI match. The two-day pink-ball match is scheduled for next weekend in Canberra. Vaughan described the move as "amateurish," especially after England suffered an eight-wicket defeat in Perth. The Ashes opener, won by Australia, concluded within two days. The 2nd Test will be a day-night affair scheduled to begin in Brisbane on December 4.
Squad status
England's squad members unlikely to play in PM's XI match
The players who were part of the Perth Test are unlikely to feature in the Canberra match. This is because the England Lions were already scheduled for this fixture, not the main touring party. Brendon McCullum, England's head coach, had said after their defeat that they would consider sending some players to Canberra. However, captain Ben Stokes hinted at sticking with their original plan and heading straight to Brisbane on November 26.
Decision defense
Stokes defends decision to skip PM's XI match
Stokes defended their decision by saying, "That's how it was done a long time ago." He added that they prepare well and work hard every day on their game. However, Alastair Cook, an all-time English great, has also urged them to reconsider this decision. He wrote in his Sunday Times column that he would want to play the pink-ball game against the Prime Minister's XI in Canberra, and not just leave it to Lions players.
Squad advocacy
Vaughan advocates for full-strength squad in PM's XI match
Vaughan went a step further and suggested that England should field their full-strength squad, including the fast bowlers who played in Perth. He said, "It's amateurish if they don't go and play now." Vaughan stressed on the importance of playing two days of cricket with a pink ball under lights. He also noted that Australia have been a formidable force in Day-Night Tests.
Information
Australia and England in D/N Tests
According to ESPNcricinfo, Australia have won 13 of their 14 Day-Night Tests, losing only to West Indies in 2024. On the other hand, England have lost five of their seven pink-ball fixtures, losing three to Australia.